UCLA students are diving deep into the multifaceted world of food, exploring its cultural, social, and economic implications. Their research and projects go beyond simply “food for thought,” providing tangible solutions for food insecurity and promoting sustainable practices. The University of California Global Food Initiative (UCGFI) empowers these students through fellowships and ambassadorships, enabling them to tackle critical food issues.
The UCGFI fellows program, established in 2015, has supported over 200 UC students, including 33 from UCLA. These students receive funding for self-directed research, projects, and internships focused on food-related challenges. Inspired by the UCLA Healthy Campus Initiative, the UCGFI seeks to address hunger locally, nationally, and globally.
Students from diverse academic backgrounds, including economics, statistics, and geography/environmental studies, are participating in the program. Their individual experiences and perspectives enrich their research and contribute to a deeper understanding of the complex food system. Many students integrate the food studies minor into their degree programs, enhancing their understanding of the subject.
The students’ involvement extends beyond the classroom, with many volunteering in community organizations like the Hunger Project at UCLA and Food Forward. These organizations work to combat homelessness and provide food to those in need throughout Los Angeles County. Practical experiences like these provide invaluable insights into the challenges of food insecurity and the importance of community-based solutions.
Through the UCGFI fellowship, students attend meetings and workshops, gaining exposure to experts and diverse perspectives on the future of food. They learn about food waste prevention, organic waste recycling, and sustainable food practices. These experiences connect them with a network of professionals and provide them with valuable career development opportunities.
The UCLA CalFresh Initiative, a student-led effort, helps eligible students enroll in the CalFresh program (formerly known as food stamps). This initiative directly addresses food insecurity on campus, providing students with financial assistance for food expenses. The program’s success highlights the importance of student advocacy and the impact of direct service on the well-being of the student community. Reducing student stress related to food insecurity enables them to focus on their academic pursuits.
The UC system’s commitment to food security is evident in its financial support for programs like the UCLA Food Closet, campus meal voucher programs, and the UCLA Teaching Kitchen Collaborative. These initiatives demonstrate a comprehensive approach to addressing food insecurity, providing both immediate relief and long-term solutions.
Students are also examining the global food landscape, comparing food production and consumption patterns in countries like China and the United States. This research explores the cultural, social, and economic impacts of changing food systems and the implications for human health and environmental sustainability.
The UCGFI fellowship fosters a community of students passionate about food-related issues. This community provides a supportive environment for learning, collaboration, and action. The students’ commitment to addressing food insecurity and promoting sustainable food practices exemplifies the power of engaged scholarship. The program continues to accept applications, fostering the next generation of food system leaders.
